Arthur

In this remake of the 80s comedy staple, Russell Brand reprises the role of Arthur Bach, the millionaire playboy who refuses to grow up.  Arthur lives a life of careless luxury and excess and - as the son of a business tycoon - has never had to work a day in his life.  But all that's about to change once his mother announces he must marry wealthy socialite, Susan Johnson (Jennifer Garner), or be cut off from the family inheritance.  Arthur begrudgingly agrees, until he meets and falls for cute tour guide, Naomi (Greta Gerwig).  Now the big question is... will Arthur choose love or money?  Brand, as the childish and fun-loving Arthur, revels in the opportunity to play such an unleashed character.  But as much fun as he seems to be having, with an ever-present impish grin on his lips, the smile never quite seems to reach his eyes, making his mischievous nature slightly less believable.  It is pretty funny seeing Brand cavort around town, getting completely sloshed and wreaking havoc in his own exact replica Batmobile.  The problem is, Arthur seems to be in on the joke which detracts from his innocent charm.  Brand seems to be better suited at playing the stupid, hollow clown than the stupid clown with an inner heart of gold begging for redemption.  Regardless, Brand is comical enough to keep the crazy train rolling, and with help from his lovely supporting players - Garner, having a ball as the buttoned-up businesswoman with an inner freak, and Helen Mirren as Arthur's stern, but caring nanny - the film gets by on being moderately entertaining.  I just wish Arthur had managed to grow-up on his own terms and not out of a feeling of guilt or obligation.  That's when Arthur stops feeling fun and starts feeling tired.

3 out of 5 stars